Owain Israel works in Linc’s Asset Management Team as a Project Manager. His role has a particular focus on Wales’ journey to zero carbon.  

“A career in construction was always on the cards for me. I had been interested in building design and construction from a young age and did some work experience at an architect firm when I was in school.

I went on to do an apprenticeship with a private chartered building surveying practice, eventually achieving my building surveying degree.

10 years ago, I got my first job in the social housing sector. I knew very little about the sector previously, but I quickly learned that it was going to be a rewarding and meaningful career. Working in housing, I feel a tangible connection between my work and the difference it is making for our customers. Ensuring the homes our customers live in are safe and comfortable is our main priority.

Since beginning my career in housing, I have been given the opportunity to further my training. I have progressed and taken on more senior roles, and now manage large projects for Linc.

I am currently overseeing Linc’s role in a large Optimised Retrofit project. The project is a collaboration between 68 partners, who together have been given £7 million in Welsh Government funding to make energy efficiency improvements to homes in Wales.

Linc were directly awarded £110,000 and are using the money to retrofit energy efficiency measures to 69 houses in Newport.

It’s a great project to be a part of. I’m learning lots about tenant engagement, the welsh economy and supply chains, and alongside my colleagues have received specialist training on how to carry out a ‘whole home survey’.

Welsh Government have set a target for all homes in Wales to be net zero carbon by 2050. Even more ambitious (and exciting), is their target for all 300,000 social landlord homes to be net zero carbon by 2030. 

With this commitment driving the sector, now is a great time to be working in housing. It’s exciting, innovative and we’re playing our part in the solution of a global issue.

I’m really passionate about my job and am so pleased I made the move into the housing sector all those years ago. If you’re looking for a new and rewarding challenge, it could be the place for you.”